The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has confirmed the death of one of its senior commanders and chief photographer, Abu Salim al-Barnawi, who was killed during a failed attack on a Nigerian military base last week.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama, in a post on X, reported that intelligence sources disclosed that the terrorist group issued an obituary confirming Abu Salim was among the fighters neutralised by Nigerian troops during the unsuccessful assault.
According to Makama, Abu Salim headed ISWAP’s media operations, serving as the group’s chief photographer and videographer. He was responsible for documenting combat missions and producing propaganda materials used to recruit members and boost the morale of fighters.
Makama added that before taking charge of the group’s media activities, Abu Salim led several cross-border attacks against security forces in neighbouring Cameroon before later moving into propaganda operations.
The report described his death as a significant blow to ISWAP’s media network, noting that he played a crucial role in recording and distributing the group’s operational videos and other propaganda content.
Makama further stated that the confirmation came after Nigerian troops successfully repelled last week’s attack on the military base, killing several senior ISWAP operatives and inflicting heavy casualties on the terrorists.
Security sources quoted by Makama said the development highlights the continued weakening of ISWAP’s operational strength and propaganda machinery as military offensives intensify across Nigeria’s North-East.
